Avoiding Informal Language: Slang, Colloquialisms, and Clichés in Writing
Conversational English, including slang, colloquialisms, and clichés, is not suitable for academic or professional writing. Slang expressions, colloquial language, and clichés should be avoided as they lack formality and originality. Examples provided illustrate these informal language elements to steer clear of when aiming for clear, professional communication.
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Mini-Lesson #44 From the UWF Writing Lab s 101 Grammar Mini-Lessons Series
Conversational English Conversational English is bad English for academic and professional writing. Conversational English usually consists of the following: Slang Colloquialisms Clich s
Slang Slang is a style of language characteristic of given localities, age groups, time periods, and cultural and social groups. Slang may be used effectively in informal and formal speech and writing, as long as the slang expression is set off in quotation marks to indicate the usage is intentionally informal.
Examples of Slang Here are some common slang expressions that may or may not still be in use: a drag (uninteresting) pigging out (eating) chill out (relax) ratted out (told, divulged) fed up (tired of)
Colloquialisms A colloquialism is an expression that is chiefly spoken- it is the vernacular; that is, its usage should be reserved for very informal spoken occasions, not for writing. Colloquialisms are generally the language of everyday speech.
Examples of Colloquialisms Anyways (anyway) A bunch of people (a number of people) We have a deal (We have an agreement) Fixing to leave (preparing to leave) Kid, kids (child, children) Okay, o.k., ok (all right) Pretty good (very good)
Clich Clich s are once colorful expressions that have become trite, worn-out, and overworked through overuse. A clich shows no originality on the part of the writer or speaker. Clich s cause the reader to anticipate the writer s words: Last but , for instance, used in a list to introduce the last item, automatically suggests last but not least.
Examples of Clichs Tip of the iceberg Crystal clear Been there, done that A method to this madness All in all Easier said than done Ripe old age Cool as a cucumber After all is said and done Believe it or not
